Floyd Mayweather and Manny Pacquiao personally met for the final time before the official weigh-in during a press conference in Los Angeles on Wednesday, March 11.
BBC Sport reported that compared to previous face-to-face meetings that the two boxing superstars had with past opponents, they had a lot of mutual respect this time, choosing to talk about the fight instead of throwing verbal jabs at each other.
Mayweather (47-0) said, "May 2 - the world stops. Mayweather v Pacquiao is the biggest fight in history."
In a Yahoo Sports video, taken during the press conference, Mayweather is seen saying, "I'm in the gym working right now, dedicating myself to the sport. Pushing myself to the limit... because I never wanted to win a fight so bad in my life. And I'm pretty sure he's going to push himself to the limit. Because he wants to win just the same way as I want to win.
"But one thing I do know, about any sport. When you lose, it's in your mind. If you lost once, it's in your mind. If you lost twice, it's in your mind. From day one, I was always taught to be a winner. No matter what, be a winner. Push yourself to the limit, stay focused, and be the best that you can be.
USA Today reported that usually, Mayweather would try to intimidate his opponents mentally, which would work to his advantage going into the fight. However, during his meeting with Pacquiao, he was particularly quiet and reserved.
Mayweather said, "On May 2 I have a tough test. Manny Pacquiao is a good fighter. I can't see how it will play out, I am not a psychic. But you best believe I will be in top shape and the best I can be."
Mayweather's behavior and statements could very well indicate that he understands the unique type of threat that Pacquiao poses to his undefeated legacy.
ESPN notes that Pacquiao himself was respectful towards Mayweather.
Pacquiao said, "I believe this is what you are waiting for since five years ago. The fight is on, and we're very excited. Both of us will undergo hard training and we will do our best on May 2 to make you happy."
Pacquiao also mentioned before that he treats the mega-fight the same way he did his previous bouts.
The fight continues to draw hype as the big date draws closer. The megafight is set to rake in the biggest money purse in the history of boxing.
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